NEW YORK (Reuters) - Willis Group Holdings Ltd, the world's third largest insurance broker, said last night that net income more than doubled in the third quarter, helped by higher commission and fee revenue.

Willis said net earnings from continuing operations rose to $78 million, or 46 cents per share, from $36 million, or 25 cents a share, in the year-earlier quarter.

Commissions and fees rose 28 percent to $714 million, outpacing an increase in costs and leaving Willis with a bigger profit.

Willis shares closed down 10 cents in the regular session at $26.52, before the earnings report was issued.

The brokerage has headquarters in New York and London and recently said it planned to move its place of incorporation to Ireland from Bermuda.